Implementation of a novel genetic services model to enhance patient care
Recent genetic advances have led to dramatic increases in genetic testing availability however, the number of patients referred for genetic services has grown faster than the number of medical doctor (MD) clinical geneticists. This situation has led to wait times that are often 6-12 months for initial appointment, potentially leading to the perpetuation of health disparities.
Traditional model of delivering genetic services
- Patient referred to Genetics clinic
- Determination of appropriateness for genetic services (medical records)
- Patient scheduled for next available appointment with medical genetics team (Medical Doctor and Genetic Counselor)
- Wait time averages 4-6 months for initial appointment
Novel model of delivering genetic services
- Confirm the appropriateness for genetic services
- Initial appointment with Genetic Counselor (~30 days)
- Appointment includes review of patient and family history, consent, and coordination of standard genetic testing
- Medical Doctor geneticist reviews and supervise ordering genetic tests
- Subsequent appointment with Medical Doctor & Genetic Counselor to complete evaluation, physical exam, and review of test results
- Discuss options for more comprehensive testing
- For a subset, subsequent appointment with Medical Doctor is unnecessary
Project E1 Design
Element E1 Investigators
Danielle Dick, PhD
Director, Rutgers Addiction Research Center
Professor
Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
danielle.m.dick@rutgers.edu
>>View Bio
Gary A. Heiman, PhD
Vice Chair, Department of Genetics
Professor
Rutgers School of Arts and Sciences
heiman@rutgers.edu
>>View Bio
Christina Botti, MS, LCGC
Genetic Counselor
Adjunct Instructor, Department of Pediatrics
Clinical Instructor, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences
Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
armelich@rwjms.rutgers.edu
>>View Bio
Emily Balcke, MSc
Program Manager
Rutgers Addiction Research Center
Brain Health Institute
emily.balcke@rutgers.edu